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Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Monday sought the cooperation of newspaper editors in finalising a policy framework for an independent media and ensuring greater press freedom in Bangladesh.
The Prime Minister made the call during a meeting with leaders of the National Editors’ Council at his office in the Cabinet Division at the Bangladesh Secretariat.
He said the government is working to formulate a comprehensive policy for independent media and journalists and stressed that the views and experience of editors would be crucial in making the framework effective and acceptable.
The Prime Minister also urged editors to continue playing a constructive role by highlighting both the shortcomings and positive initiatives of the government.
While reaffirming the government’s commitment to press freedom, Tarique Rahman said constructive criticism from the media strengthens democratic governance and contributes to greater accountability. At the same time, he expressed the hope that the media would also give due attention to development activities and other positive achievements of the government.
He reiterated his request for the editors’ cooperation in finalising the proposed policy, describing it as an important step towards strengthening an independent and responsible media environment.
The National Editors’ Council delegation was led by its Convener and Jaijaidin Editor Shafik Rehman and Joint Convener and Amar Desh Editor Mahmudur Rahman.
Other members of the eight-member delegation included Protidiner Bangladesh Editor Maruf Kamal Khan Sohel, Naya Diganta Editor Salah Uddin Muhammad Babar, Jugantor Editor Abdul Hai Shikder, National Press Club President Hasan Hafiz, WADA Editor Shafiqul Alam and Manabkantha Editor Shahidul Islam.
The meeting focused on issues relating to media freedom, professional journalism and the formulation of a policy framework aimed at strengthening the role of an independent press in Bangladesh.
